MNLEG Economic Development Equity Agreement Passes Committee: $35 million 2017, $35 million next two years

The Minnesota Legislative Conference Committee reviewing some core equity proposals in economic development areas reached an agreement of $35 million in 2017 and another $35 million spread out over the next two years.

Core ALANA organizations such as NDC and MEDA were funded. A new protocol of pass through funds and open competitive grant programs holds promise.

What was noteworthy was the high level of collegiality among Republican and Democrat legislators – a tone which is needed as we move forward to invest in ALANA economic assets.

Legislators commended Senator Hayden and Senator Champion for their leadership.

Now we need the leadership of Governor Dayton and DEED Commissioner Hardy to ensure that smaller organizations and the diversity of organizations within the ALANA communities have access to the competitive grants. Rep. Garofalo was concerned that organizations receiving funding from the legislature would double-dip and receive funding through the competitive grants process. This is an important concern of smaller organizations who are often left out of the competitive grant process.